Twenty-six beautiful, easy-to-do cross-stitch projects, all inspired by the garden, include simple directions, detailed design charts, full-color photographs of the finished projects, and tips on cross-stitch techniques, materials, and fabrics.

Features: Small motifs and large pieces suitable for framing offer many options; Cross-stitch projects such as bookmarks, pincushions, pillows, ornaments, and more; A variety of designs please beginners and more experienced cross-stitchers; Cross-stitch primer details basics for beginners; Triple-checked charts guarantee accuracy and success; Materials list and colour photographs with each project.

Sometimes it's good to be a little improper. Profane, funny, and smart, Haley Pierson-Cox's book invites the modern crafter to bring personality and humour to their cross stitch projects. Her easy to follow instructions and colourful designs can make a cross stitcher out of anyone.

If you think you know what cross stitch is, look again! Jamie Chalmers, aka Mr X Stitch, shows you how to cross stitch using simple step-by-step instructions and also takes you to the frontiers of cross stitch design. The book is aimed at stitchers of all abilities, from absolute beginners looking to learn a new craft to embroiderers and cross stitchers who want to do something different in cross stitching. For many, cross stitch conjures up images of cute kittens and country cottages, but this book shows people that theres a different side to cross stitching that its an art in its own right, and will encourage them to be a little braver with their art. Jamies writing style is fun, entertaining and highly inspirational. The book aims to appeal to men as well as women, encouraging one and all to take up the ancient craft. It teaches the basics of cross stitching, including information on materials, tools, techniques and colour blending, but also puts Jamies own individual spin on it, with urban flavours and the introduction of different materials such as glow-in-the-dark threads and stitching on metal. As well as providing exciting designs to stitch, there is guidance on how to create cross stitch designs of your own, for example by using photographs and other images for reference. Jamie also showcases the work of other contemporary cross stitchers who are pushing the boundaries of their craft, and introduces more than 20 stunning cutting-edge projects to make, showing that beauty, innovation and 'craftivism' are alive and kicking in this inspirational book.

Frame the designs individually or create your own unique samplers. Make pillows, pincushions, ornaments, sachets, and more.

Whimsical, beautiful embroidery motifs created by an avid gardener—stitch roses, bees, or whole garden scenes. Kazuko Aoki has a unique talent for translating the beauty of the garden with needle and thread. By offering forty motifs, Aoki invites us to explore her gardens through embroidery. The forty motifs explore the roses and wildflowers that appear season to season, as well as the bees and butterflies that enjoy their nectar. The designs here are exquisite, detailed, and artfullly rendered. Beyond the motifs themselves, Aoki also presents projects that feature the embroidery: brooches, notebook covers, pin cushions, and pouches. For those new to embroidery, detailed how-to illustrations are included.